Rare and fatal brain disease in two deer hunters heightens concerns about CWD

Apr 26, 20240

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Researchers in Texas presented on a case of two deer hunters who contracted a rare and fatal brain disease after potential exposure to venison from deer with CWD. The CDC and other researchers are skeptical there's a connection.

extremely rare brain disease and died, raising fears that they may have been infected by contaminated venison.

A team of neurologists at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio presented the case at a conference last week, saying the deer herd surrounding the lodge is known to be infected with chronic wasting disease (CWD) – a fatal brain disease in deer caused by misfolded prion proteins.

"The patient's history, including a similar case in his social group, suggests a possible novel animal-to-human transmission of CWD," the researchers wrote.

https://www.startribune.com/rare-and-fatal-brain-disease-in-two-deer-hunters-heightens-concerns-about-cwd/600361731/